Overview
The first chapter introduces the Finch family, their history in Maycomb, Alabama, and their fascination with the mysterious Radley house and its inhabitant, Boo Radley. Scout, Jem, and their new friend Dill spend the summer daring each other to make contact with Boo, setting the tone for the children's coming adventures.
Finch Family Background
- Jem breaks his arm at 13, and the siblings often discuss how it happened.
- Atticus Finch, their father, is a lawyer; Uncle Jack is a doctor, and Aunt Alexandra remains at Finch's Landing.
- The family descends from Simon Finch, a Methodist from England who established Finch's Landing and owned slaves.
- The Finch family is respectable but not wealthy, and Atticus is related to many in town.
- Their mother died when Scout was two; Jem sometimes mourns her absence.
Life in Maycomb
- Maycomb is portrayed as an old, tired town where days feel long and life moves slowly.
- The Finch family lives with Calpurnia, their cook, who is strict and influential in Scout's life.
Meeting Dill
- Dill (Charles Baker Harris), a boy from Meridian, arrives to spend the summer with his aunt, Miss Rachel Haverford.
- Dill is eccentric, imaginative, and quickly becomes friends with Scout and Jem.
The Radley Place and Boo Radley Legend
- The Radley house is mysterious, run-down, and the subject of local superstition.
- Boo Radley, real name Arthur, hasn't been seen in years and is believed to be dangerous.
- Rumors and stories paint Boo as a phantom who harms plants, pets, and possibly people.
- The Radleys are reclusive, do not attend church, and are viewed as outsiders by the community.
- Boo's history includes a troubled youth, a violent episode with his father, and years of seclusion.
Children's Fascination and Dare
- Dill becomes obsessed with seeing Boo, prompting increasingly bold dares among the children.
- Jem, after much prodding, finally runs up and touches the Radley house, possibly provoking a movement inside.
Key Themes Introduced
- Family heritage and reputation are important in Maycomb.
- The mysterious, isolated Radley family symbolizes fear of the unknown.
- Childhood curiosity and bravery are driving forces for the main characters.
- Social divisions and local gossip shape perceptions of people in the community.